Dürnstein Castle Ruins
Niederösterreich
Dürnstein Castle Ruins, located above the town of Dürnstein in the UNESCO-listed Wachau Valley of Lower Austria, are remnants of a fortress built in the mid-12th century by the Kuenringer family. The castle is historically significant as the place where King Richard I of England, also known as Richard the Lionheart, was held captive from December 1192 to March 1193 after being captured during his return from the Third Crusade. The fortress was connected to the town by defensive walls and featured a chapel dedicated to St. John the Evangelist, first mentioned in 1306. Over the centuries, the castle changed ownership among noble families such as the Starhembergs, and was restored as a fortress in 1588. It suffered damage during the Thirty Years' War when Swedish troops destroyed its gatehouse in 1645. By 1679, the castle was abandoned and fell into ruin. Today, visitors can explore the evocative ruins, enjoy panoramic views of the Danube River, and learn about the castle's medieval architecture and its role in European history. The site is also near the oldest climbing garden in the Wachau region, adding to its appeal for outdoor enthusiasts.
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Tip: The best time to visit Dürnstein Castle Ruins is during late spring to early autumn when the weather is favorable for hiking and sightseeing. Visitors are advised to wear sturdy footwear due to uneven terrain. Purchasing tickets or guided tours in advance is recommended during peak tourist seasons. The castle is accessible via a scenic hiking trail from the town of Dürnstein, and combining the visit with local wine tasting in the Wachau Valley enhances the experience. Discounts may be available for groups, seniors, and students. Check the official website for updated opening hours and special events.
Interesting facts
- •King Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned at Dürnstein Castle from December 1192 to March 1193.
- •The castle was originally built by the Kuenringer family in the mid-12th century.
- •The castle chapel dedicated to St. John the Evangelist was first mentioned in 1306.
- •Swedish troops destroyed the castle's gatehouse during the Thirty Years' War in 1645.
- •The access path to the ruins is part of the Wachau World Heritage Trail and was constructed in 1882 by Prince Camillo Starhemberg.
- •Near the castle ruins lies the oldest climbing garden in the Wachau region.
History
Dürnstein Castle was constructed in the mid-12th century by the Kuenringer noble family, with Hadmar I credited for its initial building.
It became historically prominent when King Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned there from late 1192 to early 1193 by order of Duke Leopold V of Austria.
The castle chapel was first documented in 1306.
Over time, the castle passed through various noble families, including the Starhembergs, who restored it as a fortress in 1588.
During the Thirty Years' War, Swedish forces captured and damaged the castle in 1645, notably demolishing its gatehouse.
By the late 17th century, the castle was no longer inhabited and gradually fell into ruin.
In 1882, the nearby Starhemberg watchtower was built, and the access path to the ruins was established, which is now part of the Wachau World Heritage Trail.
Place Guide
Inner Courtyard and Chapel Area12th century
The inner courtyard of the castle, located above the chapel, contains a large rock with a carved cellar beneath it, offering insight into medieval castle construction and defensive design.
Castle Walls and Defensive Structures12th century
The castle is linked to the town of Dürnstein by fortified walls that extend into the town's defensive walls, illustrating medieval military architecture.
Starhemberg Watchtower1882
Built in 1882 by Prince Camillo Starhemberg, this watchtower stands above the ruins and offers panoramic views of the Wachau Valley and the Danube River.
Contact
Phone: 02711 219
